This blog marks the first year of me writing blogs! I must admit that whilst I’m never short of things to say, writing it down has been a challenge.
This blog is about volunteers. It’s Volunteers week from the 1st to the 7th June this year, Volunteers’ Week 2022 is a time to say thanks to those who give their time for free to help others. It goes without saying that volunteers have played a key role in the pandemic response, during an exceptionally difficult couple of years people from all walks of life around the UK have taken the time to volunteer and make a huge difference to their communities – just as they do every year.
This is a time for us to come together and thank all volunteers for their time and dedication. At AMAT we will be hosting a volunteer’s awards and afternoon tea, to celebrate and thank our amazing volunteers for all their hard work.
It’s human nature to feel good after helping someone out. Volunteering can also help you gain valuable new skills and experiences, make friends, and boost your confidence. Our volunteers work in several roles, from working in our charity shop or café, to cooking and donating meals, to becoming members of our Board. If you’re interested in volunteering for us, please have a look at our website. www.amatuk.org.
We’re thankful that we have 2 new board members who joined us in May. Jonathan Clay is a local barrister who also has experience of working in social housing. His experience and knowledge will be invaluable to the Board and AMAT’s development. Alexander Anderson, currently volunteers in our café is a Resident of ours who has lived with us for a while now. He is keen to learn how AMAT works and be able to guide and influence the direction of the Charity. His lived experience is so important, the perspective and understanding he has of the service is going to be unique and different to the rest of the Board.
The other ways our charity can be supported is fundraising. In April local band the Redfords held a charity showcase for us and were able to raise £1080. We will use this to support homeless adults to engage in activities and events to reduce social isolation.
A team of staff members will be bravely climbing Scafell Pike on the 25th June to raise funds for us. If you’re able to support them, please visit https://gofund.me/69b6c31f
